The Remington 870, a legendary pump-action shotgun, is incredibly versatile. Adding a rifled barrel opens up a whole new world of possibilities, allowing you to accurately engage targets at longer ranges with slugs or sabots. However, mounting a scope effectively on a rifled barrel requires careful consideration. This guide will help you navigate the choices and select the best cantilever scope mount for your Remington 870 rifled barrel.
Understanding Cantilever Mounts
A cantilever scope mount extends the scope forward, away from the receiver. This offers several key advantages:
- Improved Eye Relief: With a rifled barrel, recoil can be more substantial than with a smoothbore. A cantilever mount provides extra distance between the scope and your eye, reducing the risk of recoil injury.
- Higher Mounting Point: A higher mounting point provides a better cheek weld and improved sight picture, especially when using slugs.
- Clearance: Cantilever mounts help clear the ejection port and other parts of the shotgun, preventing interference.
Choosing the Right Mount for Your Remington 870
The market offers a variety of cantilever mounts, and choosing the right one depends on several factors:
1. Barrel Configuration:
- Rifled Barrel Diameter: Ensure the mount's diameter is compatible with your specific rifled barrel. Measurements are crucial here.
- Receiver Type: Remington 870 receivers have slight variations across different models and years. Verify compatibility with the mount's specifications.
- Weaver vs. Picatinny Rails: Most modern mounts use either Weaver or Picatinny rails. Ensure your scope rings are compatible with the chosen rail type.
2. Scope Size and Weight:
- Scope Weight: Heavier scopes demand a more robust mount capable of handling the additional stress and recoil.
- Scope Size and Objective Lens Diameter: Consider the overall dimensions of your scope to ensure sufficient clearance and proper eye relief.
3. Mount Construction and Materials:
- Material: Aluminum is a common and lightweight choice, offering good strength-to-weight ratio. Steel mounts offer superior durability but are heavier.
- Construction: Look for mounts made from high-quality materials with precise machining and a durable finish for optimal performance and longevity.
4. Installation and Ease of Use:
- Ease of Installation: While some mounts might be easier to install than others, always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Adjustability: Some mounts offer adjustable features for optimal scope placement and zeroing.
Top Considerations Before Purchasing
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews from other Remington 870 owners to get a sense of real-world performance and user experiences with different mount options.
- Check Compatibility: Before making a purchase, double-check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility with your specific Remington 870 model and rifled barrel.
- Budget: Cantilever mounts range in price, so set a budget beforehand to guide your selection.
Conclusion
Selecting the right cantilever scope mount for your Remington 870 rifled barrel is a crucial step in achieving accurate long-range shooting. By carefully considering the factors discussed above – barrel configuration, scope size and weight, mount construction, and ease of installation – you can choose a mount that enhances your shooting experience and improves your accuracy. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer instructions during installation and use.
